Friday 5 June 2015 15:47, UK
Former Atletico Madrid boss Quique Sanchez Flores has signed a two-year deal to become the new Watford head coach.
Sanchez Flores, 50, brings an impressive CV to England, having guided Atletico to the Europa League title in 2010 with a win over Fulham in the final, as well as coaching in Portugal at Benfica and more recently with Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates.
A statement on the club website read: "We are delighted to announce the appointment of Europa League winner Quique Flores as the club’s new head coach.
"The Spaniard, who boasts a wealth of top-flight experience in his home country and Portugal, has signed a two-year contract to lead the Hornets upon their return to the Premier League."
Previous incumbent Slavisa Jokanovic's contract talks broke down last month over his wage demands.
Jokanovic was appointed as Watford's fourth coach of the season in October, and steered them back into the Premier League after an eight-year absence as they finished runners-up to Championship winners Bournemouth.
Jokanovic's deal expires at the end of June, and it is understood the 46-year-old had been offered significantly improved terms of around £1m basic salary, plus another £1m in performance-based payments.
Watford put on record the club's appreciation for the outgoing management team.
A statement read: "Watford FC would like to take this opportunity to thank former head coach Slavisa Jokanovic, along with assistants Ruben Martinez and Javier Pereira, for an outstanding contribution to the success of the club. The Hornets wish all three men well for their future careers."
Jokanovic also sent a message to Watford following confirmation of his departure.
He wrote on Twitter: "Thank you to Watford FC fans, players and staff for their support during this season. I'm proud to have had the chance to help put this club back where they truly deserve to be. I wish you all the best in the future."
